Cognitive impairment in patients with cerebrovascular disease: A white paper from the links between stroke ESO Dementia Committee

PURPOSE: Many daily-life clinical decisions in patients with cerebrovascular disease and cognitive impairment are complex. Evidence-based information sustaining these decisions is frequently lacking. The aim of this paper is to propose a practical clinical approach to cognitive impairments in patients with known cerebrovascular disease. METHODS: The document was produced by the Dementia Committee of the European Stroke Organisation (ESO), based on evidence from the literature where available and on the clinical experience of the Committee members. This paper was endorsed by the ESO. FINDINGS: and for those clinicians involved in cerebrovascular disease, with specific and practical hints concerning diagnostic tools, cognitive impairment management and decision on some therapeutic options.Discussion and conclusions: It is essential to consider a possible cognitive deterioration in every patient who experiences a stroke. Neuropsychological evaluation should be adapted to the clinical status. Brain imaging is the most informative biomarker concerning prognosis. Treatment should always include adequate secondary prevention.